On the day we planned to visit Machu Picchu, we got up at 3 a.m. There was a good reason for this early start, mainly because we needed to climb Huayna Picchu, the mountain often seen in photos of Machu Picchu. By around 3:45 a.m., we were on our way to the bus stop, having packed the night before. We picked up a special breakfast from our hotel, Inkaterra, since they knew we were leaving early.
To reach Machu Picchu, you have two choices: a two-hour walk or a 30-minute bus ride. We chose the bus, thinking it would be easier. Although the bus was scheduled to leave at 6 a.m., we had to stand in line for hours beforehand. We arrived at 4 a.m. to find the line already wrapping around the block several times. We spent those early hours waiting in heavy rain, much different from the rain typical in the UK or Europe—this rain felt like it was pelting down like pebbles.
Despite the rain, our excitement to see one of the wonders of the world kept our spirits high. We were well-prepared with waterproof gear, and even bought extra ponchos from local sellers. Luckily, the rain stopped as soon as we reached Machu Picchu. By the time we passed through the entrance, the sun started peeking through the clouds, which was fantastic timing.
Right after entering, the stunning citadel is immediately visible. But don’t stop there; head up the path on the left for an amazing view of the place. It truly lives up to the hype! Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most photographed sites, and seeing it in person is still a breathtaking experience.
We spent time taking countless photos, trying to keep a straight face amid fits of giggles. The scene was incredible, with clouds hovering over Huayna Picchu in the distance, the mountain we would soon climb. Eventually, we made our way down into the citadel for a closer look.
It’s mind-boggling to think people lived here centuries ago, creating such an intricate village. It’s a testament to human greatness around the world, beyond the wealthy places often highlighted in films. Walking through the site sparked thoughts about what life was like back then, with people going about their daily lives, interacting with neighbors, and enjoying their communities.
But enough about the past—our next big adventure awaited. We were ready to tackle the challenge of climbing the remarkable Huayna Picchu, a trek that promised breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. Excitement and nerves ran high, but that’s a story for another day.
